Robert Eugene Rouse

Robert Eugene Rouse, Sr. departed this life on Friday, April 21st, 2023 at 0445 after a lengthy illness. Robert was born on October 29, 1938 in Harrisburg, IL. to loving parents Paul V. Rouse, Sr. and Annie M. (Hopkins) Rouse. He was the 2nd oldest of 12 children. Including two sisters, Marietta (Rouse) Austin (deceased) and Esther (Rouse) Avery (deceased). In the early 1940’s, The Rouses moved to Danville; where Robert received his formal education from St. Patrick’s grade school and Schlarman Academy before enlisting into the United States Army at the age of 17. Robert served in several countries and was a Vietnam Veteran, member of the Honor Guard serving the U.S. Pres. John F. Kennedy, and was a Purple Heart Recipient, dedicating a total of 9 years before honorable discharge.

In the late 50’s Robert met and married Wardella (Foster) Rouse on January 17th, 1964 and had four children. Robert later married Mary Ann (Fannin) Rouse on April 25, 1987 and gained two more sons. Although Robert grew up Catholic, he would often visit New Life Christian Center. After his service in the U.S. Army, Robert returned to Danville and worked at General Motors and the Post Office before joining the Danville Police Dept. in 1971. There he served as a sketch artist, bomb technician, Crime Scene Detective, and Patrolman over a 22-year span; retiring in 1993. The following year, 1994, Robert joined the U.S. Marshal’s and worked another 20 years before his final retirement in 2014. Robert loved jazz and Motown. Jr. Walker & The All Stars- Shotgun was on repeat with him and his old buddies. He was a devoted Chicago Cubs, Bears, and Illini fan. Most times, Robert could be found in his four-seasonroom, reclined in his recliner, with his great granddaughter Mali, speaking their own language; that only they could understand.Or watching his favorite shows: Gun Smoke, Perry Mason, Andy Griffith, or one of his favorite movies like Josey Wales. An avid reader, he had a wealth of knowledge, and was a history buff. The times he wasn’t in his recliner (which were rare), he enjoyed capturing moments with his camera, or tinkering around with electronics. We will miss your presence, sense of humor, and love down here. The memories we have, we’ll cherish for a lifetime.

He leaves to hold on to these memories:  his wife, Mary Ann, a daughter, Evonne M. (Leroy) Robinson, jr. (Danville, IL.), sons Robert E. Rouse, Jr. (Danville, IL.), Mark E. (Candy) Rouse(Glendale, AZ.), Eric (Jennifer) Bolser (Oakwood, IL), and Patrick (Jamie) Bolser (Tilton, IL.). 11 grandchildren, Juan Robinson, Robreon Rouse, Nicole Rouse, Jasmine Rouse, Alexis Micou, Aiyana Rouse, Laila Rouse, Jessica Spencer, Laciee Bolser, Jordan Bolser, and Breanna Bolser. 18 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great grandchildren. Sisters, Carol (Rev. Allen) Dixon, Lucy Dumas, Jane (Carey) Grant, and Jean Rouse, all of Danville, IL. Anna Kennel of South Bend, IN. Nancy Akers of Shorewood, MN., and Cynthia Rouse of Rantoul, IL. Brothers, Paul V. (Lillian) Rouse, Jr. of Belvidere, IL. and Larry (Patricia) Rouse of Charleston, SC., a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a daughter, Carla J. Rouse, a son, Rory A. Micou, sisters, Marietta (Rouse) Austin, and Ester (Rouse) Avery, and grandson, Joshua J. Robinson. 

Services will commence at 12 noon, Monday, May 1, 2023 at New Life Church of Faith 1419 North Bowman Ave., Danville. Visitation will begin at 11am until the start of the service. Officiating Pastor Thomas W. Miller. Interment Danville National Cemetery. Leek & Sons Funeral Home-Danville, in charge of arrangements.

A public view be held from 12:00 noon until 3:00 pm Sunday April 30, 2023 at Leek & Sons Funeral Home 304 E. Williams.

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